Buck Creek Players opened their 2010-2011 season, “From Page to Stage”, this weekend with Salzman & Cunningham’s I Love You Because. This modern day retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, marks the Indiana premiere of this contemporary musical.
The musical tells the story of conservative greeting card writer, Austin (played by David Michael Cress) who discovers that his longtime girlfriend is cheating on him and then feels edgy about re-entering the dating scene. Austin’s dunce of a brother, Jeff (Stacey ‘Jack’ Johnson), persuades Austin to go on a double date where the brothers meet free-spirited Marcy (Angela Manlove) and the structured Diana (Jennifer Poynter). The couples; Austin and Marcy and Jeff and Diana fall into unexpected relationships where they deal with complications, exes, and being “just friends…with benefits!” The score and dialogue are offbeat, quirky, and the show is great fun to watch. The musical enlightens the audience to love others BECAUSE of their differences, rather than in spite of them.
Checkmarks to Angela Manlove for an excellent performance of “Just Not Now”, bringing a very clear and touching end to the first act. Also, checkmarks to Stacey ‘Jack’ Johnson and David Michael Cress for top-notch comedic moments throughout the show – Superman underwear, anyone? Standout musical numbers included the opening “Another Saturday Night in New York” and “What Do We Do It For?”. Finally, the fabulous (and versatile) set design: a park, office, two different apartments, a bar, and a coffee shop – conceived by Aaron B. Bailey, is definitely worth noting.
I Love You Because continues during weekends at Buck Creek Playhouse, 11150 Southeastern Avenue, Indianapolis – through October 17th. More information can be found online at: http://www.buckcreekplayers.com
(PHOTO: From left – Stacey ‘Jack’ Johnson, Jennifer Poynter, Angela Manlove, and David Michael Cress. Courtesy of Buck Creek Players.)